In the first season of Playgrounds and Paychecks, we'll pull back the curtain on the struggles of working parents balancing childcare among all their other responsibilities. This intro episode shares a slice of my own childcare journey as a former teacher who now works from home. With my guests this season, we'll break down the complexities of balancing school drop-offs and pickups, managing work from home with kids, and finding care for a child with special needs. Plus, we'll tackle unique situations such as working non-traditional hours and belonging to the 'sandwich generation' – being caregivers to both their children and aging parents. To offer insights and solutions, we have some exciting guests lined up, including the innovative founder of a daycare, co-working space, and gym in one. With an array of real stories, struggles, and solutions, we'll explore the different aspects of the childcare conundrum faced by many of us today.

This season is dedicated to my great aunt, Mrs. Betty, a woman who played a hand in raising many children in her years and was the perfect example of what every parent wants in a childcare provider.

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RossLearningSolutions.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

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How does your family tackle the chaos that is the beginning of the school year? Join me as I chat with Eli, a dad of three, about how he and his wife deal with the whirlwind of pickups, locations, and people they juggle to get the kids to school and daycare, all while managing their professional lives as a marketer and teacher.

We talk about how to navigate the intricacies of balancing work, parenting, and self-care. A supportive boss who understands the unique needs of a parent and a flexible workplace play a large role in being able to manage drop-offs, pick-ups, and even sick kids.

We explore the significance of communication and trust between partners, elements that are particularly crucial when both are stretched to their limits. We also reflect on the struggle of parenting while preserving our individuality. We discuss the importance of self-reflection, maintaining a sense of self, and the necessity of taking time for personal care.

Eli talks about the course for parents that he and his wife co-wrote. Learn more about 'Team Parenting: The Toddler Years' at www.goodbonesunited.com

Eli Johnson is a husband, a dad of three kids under seven, and a teacher-turned-marketer in the Midwest. He also freelance writes through Good Bones United, LLC. When he's not working or doing the dishes again, he's probably (re)watching Survivor, listening to an audiobook, or trying out a new recipe for dinner. You can find him on LinkedIn and on Good Bones United.

Connect with us at:

RossLearningSolutions.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture

Balancing your careers and caring for a toddler can be difficult enough, but it can be even harder when your spouse is a shift worker with unconventional hours. In this episode, Kortney chats with Katie Roark about how she and her husband navigate childcare amidst traveling for work and 12-hour shifts. Katie shares candid insights into how she and her husband have found a rhythm that works for them.

We also chat about the often frustrating world of daycare, and how the costs seem to pile up even when her toddler isn't attending. Amidst the challenges, Katie and her family find joy, and her story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of working parents everywhere. Tune in, and you might just find a strategy or two that could make your life a little easier.

Connect with us at:

RossLearningSolutions.com

LinkedIn: @kortneyross

Instagram: @nextgenworkculture

Facebook: @nextgenworkculture